Damascus, Syria 🇸🇾
#680
33.513069, 36.309581
Nomad Score:
35%
Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Damascus is the capital city of Syria, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. |
| 👥 Population | Approximately 1.7 million people. |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average internet speed is around 10 Mbps. |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | Currency is Syrian Pound (SYP). 1 USD ≈ 3,000 SYP. |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Not drinkable; bottled water is recommended. |
| 🔌 Power | Electricity operates on 220V, 50Hz, and uses Type C plugs. |
| 📶 SIM Card | Major providers include MTN and Syriatel. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | ATM access is limited; credit cards are not widely accepted. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Options include hotels, guesthouses, and short-term rentals via platforms like Airbnb. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Limited. Cash is preferred in most situations. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and local listings provide varying options in central Damascus. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Hostel options like 'Seven Stars Hostel' are available. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | There are limited coworking spaces; consider using 'The Hub' for remote work. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | Cafes like 'Cafe Gibran' offer good Wi-Fi and a quiet work environment. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Networking is informal; local expat groups often meet in cafes. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | Expat meetup events are usually organized through Facebook groups. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | Local taxis are available; no major ride-hailing apps operate. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Bike rentals are limited; walking is preferred in city centers. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | The nearest beach is in Latakia, approximately 3 hours' drive away. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | Syrian Arab Airlines connects to regional destinations. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | International flights are limited; consider airlines like Turkish Airlines for connections. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | Well-connected roads lead to nearby cities like Aleppo and Homs. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | The main train station serves limited routes due to ongoing conflicts. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | Public transport is mainly served by buses; no formal pass system exists. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Travel between cities is mainly by bus or shared taxi. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | Al-Mouwasat University Hospital is a well-known facility. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Few options exist; personal trainers may offer private sessions. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Gyms like 'Fitness Center Shami' are available in Damascus. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Laundry services like 'Al-Nassery laundry' provide convenient options. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | Local apps like 'Talabat' offer food delivery services. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Don't miss trying 'Fattoush' and 'Kibbeh'. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Options like 'Veggie Cafe' offer vegetarian-friendly dishes. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | Visit 'Bakdash' for traditional ice cream. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Souk Al-Hamidiyah offers a variety of local products. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Local platforms like 'Souq.com' provide online shopping services. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | Limited; larger supermarkets may offer delivery. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | Limited nightlife; local cafes often turn into social hubs. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | Beer is produced in limited quantities; local varieties are available. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | Limited availability; some restaurants offer local wines. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Street food includes Shawarma and Falafel, commonly available. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Some Italian and Lebanese restaurants are found throughout the city. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | Visit the Umayyad Mosque and the Citadel of Damascus. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | The National Museum of Damascus showcases rich cultural heritage. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | The straight street known as Via Recta is a key historic location. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | The shrine of Saint Ananias is a significant religious site. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | Cultural festivals are occasionally held; details may vary. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | The Old City offers rich historical and cultural experiences. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | Limited options, check local listings for events. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | Souk Al-Hamidiyah is the main market and a cultural hub. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Music events are held at local cafes and public squares. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Limited visibility of street art in the city. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Rarely available, though some local families may offer workshops. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | Art scenes are small; visit local galleries in the Old City. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | Explore historic homes and architectures in the Old City. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | The city embodies deep historical and cultural roots, particularly in its architecture. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | The Anti-Lebanon Mountains provide scenic views and hiking opportunities. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | Alascus National Park is several hours away by car. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | Limited formal paths; walking through historical areas is common. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | Visit Qasioun Mountain for panoramic views of the city. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | Limited; nearby parks may offer some opportunities. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Restricted due to safety concerns; check with locals. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | Limited international delivery options; local providers available. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Local shops can assist with basic tech repairs. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Public parks may have informal setups. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Language schools are available for Arabic and English. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | The National Library holds a variety of resources. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | Limited; some activities may occur in cultural centers. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Local gaming cafes can be found around downtown. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | Gambling is not legal; limited entertainment options exist. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $700 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = $28,000). |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $500 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = $20,000). |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,200 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = $72,000). |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $800 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = $48,000). |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,500 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = $120,000). |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,000 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = $80,000). |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | 25%. |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | 15%. |
| 🏦 Tax System | Based on progressive taxation with various brackets. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | 22%. |
| 🧾 VAT | 10%. |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Limited due to the economic environment. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | Estimated based on property value and size. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | Around 5% on property purchases. |